Addiction Therapists in Westminster, CA
![Photo of Bryan Vasquez, CATCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52632fb5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
![Photo of Steven Nelson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1dcaee1-9e78-4b42-9614-f068e8707e2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Steven Nelson. I am always delighted to be able to help others find their own solutions with life's circumstances. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. If you seek, you will find. At times we just need that support to help see it. “If you bring the body the mind will follow.” I specialize in various and multiple theoretical approaches to help with various addiction issues, grief, anxiety, depression, Trauma, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Steven Nelson. I am always delighted to be able to help others find their own solutions with life's circumstances. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. If you seek, you will find. At times we just need that support to help see it. “If you bring the body the mind will follow.” I specialize in various and multiple theoretical approaches to help with various addiction issues, grief, anxiety, depression, Trauma, and PTSD.
![Photo of Shannon Forbes, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d244ff6-7b2a-4939-ac51-d186ebedd246/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Forbes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92684
Everyone has an inner critic that is demanding, judgmental, and critical of the self. Some have harsher inner critics than others; however, my goal is for my clients to experience less criticism and more curiosity and self-compassion. Self-criticism is debilitating. It can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, cutting, substance abuse, infidelity and the list goes on. As I work with my clients to develop more self-awareness and self-understanding, they begin to develop more self-compassion and their symptoms begin to dissipate.
Everyone has an inner critic that is demanding, judgmental, and critical of the self. Some have harsher inner critics than others; however, my goal is for my clients to experience less criticism and more curiosity and self-compassion. Self-criticism is debilitating. It can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, cutting, substance abuse, infidelity and the list goes on. As I work with my clients to develop more self-awareness and self-understanding, they begin to develop more self-compassion and their symptoms begin to dissipate.
![Photo of Nicole Carmona, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a00eb00f-11cb-4414-9fcc-1b467f3df297/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a diverse population and have a background in helping those struggling with crisis, depression, anxiety, Substance Use Disorder, trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Nicole Carmona, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing teletherapy services in California. A bit about my educational and professional background: I attended Azusa Pacific University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by attending Cal State University, Fullerton, where I earned my Master in Social Work.
I work with a diverse population and have a background in helping those struggling with crisis, depression, anxiety, Substance Use Disorder, trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Nicole Carmona, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing teletherapy services in California. A bit about my educational and professional background: I attended Azusa Pacific University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by attending Cal State University, Fullerton, where I earned my Master in Social Work.
![Photo of Nestor Carcache, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3a3e87-a995-48f9-b75a-b97157ceb465/2/320x400.png)
My name is Nestor Carcache, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orange County, California. I work with individuals, couples, families and specialize in anxiety, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, grief, depression, traumas, and addiction, using a variety of ecliptic therapy approaches as a guide to collaborate with clients to find solutions to their current struggles and learn healthier ways to cope with life challenges.
My name is Nestor Carcache, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orange County, California. I work with individuals, couples, families and specialize in anxiety, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, grief, depression, traumas, and addiction, using a variety of ecliptic therapy approaches as a guide to collaborate with clients to find solutions to their current struggles and learn healthier ways to cope with life challenges.
![Photo of Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d7add8a-fe34-4622-9eb1-a540ea6793e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings, my name is Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC. I have worked with diverse clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adult populations. My focus areas of practice include depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, life stressors, grief and trauma-related issues, parenting, impulsivity, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach to providing therapy combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling. I believe in meeting anyone where they are in the journey of healing.
Greetings, my name is Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC. I have worked with diverse clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adult populations. My focus areas of practice include depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, life stressors, grief and trauma-related issues, parenting, impulsivity, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach to providing therapy combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling. I believe in meeting anyone where they are in the journey of healing.
![Photo of Joey Pham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ba6200-b064-42ff-9053-f71714034b2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joey Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92683 (Online Only)
I have dealt with a wide range of concerns including family discord, identity crisis, suicidal ideation, addiction, trauma and chronic illnesses such as Bipolar, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders and Substance Use Disorders.
At time, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling hopeless, unmotivated, lost, and stuck. I am passionate and confident in my ability to make a difference in the life of my clients. Having been through many touch patches myself, I understand well the importance of regaining one's own sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I have experiences working with both children and adults using individual and family therapy modalities.
I have dealt with a wide range of concerns including family discord, identity crisis, suicidal ideation, addiction, trauma and chronic illnesses such as Bipolar, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders and Substance Use Disorders.
At time, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling hopeless, unmotivated, lost, and stuck. I am passionate and confident in my ability to make a difference in the life of my clients. Having been through many touch patches myself, I understand well the importance of regaining one's own sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I have experiences working with both children and adults using individual and family therapy modalities.
![Photo of Daniel Rock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f73a22-c6d1-470d-af2d-d5d040e5d9d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 9 years of clinical experience. My work has allowed me to engage and support clients challenged by depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, trauma, loss and grieving, and addictive substances. I utilize client-centered and solution-based approaches in my therapeutic work and strongly advocate for the client to determine what priorities are most significant in the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 9 years of clinical experience. My work has allowed me to engage and support clients challenged by depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, trauma, loss and grieving, and addictive substances. I utilize client-centered and solution-based approaches in my therapeutic work and strongly advocate for the client to determine what priorities are most significant in the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Laura Shames, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff66eb3a-d1e9-48ad-b2f8-41650fb367bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over twenty years of experience, as a board certified LCSW, I have helped thousands of people find their way to an incredible life filled with purpose, love and happiness. By utilizing the client's inherent strengths and building on them to find solutions to challenges that help the client create their unique path. I earned my Bachelors of Science at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, acquired my Masters in Social Work in 1993 from Loyola University in Chicago and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1996 specializing in individual, couples and family clinical therapy.
With over twenty years of experience, as a board certified LCSW, I have helped thousands of people find their way to an incredible life filled with purpose, love and happiness. By utilizing the client's inherent strengths and building on them to find solutions to challenges that help the client create their unique path. I earned my Bachelors of Science at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, acquired my Masters in Social Work in 1993 from Loyola University in Chicago and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1996 specializing in individual, couples and family clinical therapy.
![Photo of Thang Mike Huynh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b0dc79-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
30 years experiences with Mental Health/Alcohol and Other Drugs/Dual Diagnosis Program. Have contract with Agency approved by Parole/Court to provide psychotherapy to clients who are on parole or probation. Consultant for Pacificare, Blue Shield, Blue Cross, United Health and Orange County Social Services Agency. Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. I also could read, speak and write Vietnamese fluently and considered myself as bi-cultures. My therapy approaches are precise, rapid and focused
30 years experiences with Mental Health/Alcohol and Other Drugs/Dual Diagnosis Program. Have contract with Agency approved by Parole/Court to provide psychotherapy to clients who are on parole or probation. Consultant for Pacificare, Blue Shield, Blue Cross, United Health and Orange County Social Services Agency. Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. I also could read, speak and write Vietnamese fluently and considered myself as bi-cultures. My therapy approaches are precise, rapid and focused
![Photo of Pamela Montazer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1c7369d-5c08-465b-aa12-a1475b2e7f0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Montazer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683 (Online Only)
Pamela Montazer is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is certified in EMDR and yoga. She has additional training in meditation, breathwork, tai chi, and qi gong. When she isn't working, she is practicing yoga, martial arts, in nature, with her dogs, drawing, or playing guitar.
Pamela Montazer is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is certified in EMDR and yoga. She has additional training in meditation, breathwork, tai chi, and qi gong. When she isn't working, she is practicing yoga, martial arts, in nature, with her dogs, drawing, or playing guitar.
![Photo of James Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876266db-dba1-47aa-9656-7ae400effb78/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am James Thomas, LCSW. I strive to meet people where they are exploring and support individuals to get in touch with what is truly important to them while cultivating loving acceptance of themselves. Being able to increase insight, understanding of how the past impacts the present, although does not have to dictate one's reality, developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of the current situation allows people to work towards becoming a person who lives a life which is congruent with their values.
I am James Thomas, LCSW. I strive to meet people where they are exploring and support individuals to get in touch with what is truly important to them while cultivating loving acceptance of themselves. Being able to increase insight, understanding of how the past impacts the present, although does not have to dictate one's reality, developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of the current situation allows people to work towards becoming a person who lives a life which is congruent with their values.
![Photo of Bettyjean Weser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3391327-06b4-4986-9d2d-1126ec25238f/2/320x400.png)
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or feel like you're not sure how to navigate a new territory of your life? Do you need help setting healthy boundaries or coping with stress and anxiety? Or perhaps a past trauma is beginning to surface? I genuinely believe our darkest wounds lose power, and we begin to heal when we shed light on them. My goal is to provide support and insight to help you identify your strengths and get your life back on track with appropriate coping strategies and perhaps new boundaries.
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or feel like you're not sure how to navigate a new territory of your life? Do you need help setting healthy boundaries or coping with stress and anxiety? Or perhaps a past trauma is beginning to surface? I genuinely believe our darkest wounds lose power, and we begin to heal when we shed light on them. My goal is to provide support and insight to help you identify your strengths and get your life back on track with appropriate coping strategies and perhaps new boundaries.
![Photo of Dr. Marc Bock, PhD, DC, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b559e10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marc Bock has developed and led anger management groups for men convicted of domestic violence for over 10 years. He now works with individuals and couples in his private practice to guide them on the path to a healthy relationship with themselves and others. In addition to being a practicing psychologist and chiropractor, he is also an educator and lecturer. This unique balance of mind and body skills and the awareness of how our pain affects our total self, allows for a more integrated approach in guiding individuals along their path of healing.
Dr. Marc Bock has developed and led anger management groups for men convicted of domestic violence for over 10 years. He now works with individuals and couples in his private practice to guide them on the path to a healthy relationship with themselves and others. In addition to being a practicing psychologist and chiropractor, he is also an educator and lecturer. This unique balance of mind and body skills and the awareness of how our pain affects our total self, allows for a more integrated approach in guiding individuals along their path of healing.
![Photo of Dr. Christy Cosper, PhD, LMFT, CSAT-S, CPTT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3dddde4-94ff-44c9-b790-9ee27ed91232/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christy Cosper
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT-S, CPTT-S
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
![Photo of Craig D Kain, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb53674-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
![Photo of Anxiety Trauma And Self Discovery Crystal McClelland, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f0a74e9-19dd-4b98-808a-d39aa4b7ae00/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety Trauma And Self Discovery Crystal McClelland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92683 (Online Only)
I understand that the world can be harsh, demanding, and at times overwhelming. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, unraveling the layers that contribute to your unique lived experience. Whether you are facing challenges in your relationships, struggling with personal growth, or grappling with the uncertainties of the modern world, I am here to walk alongside you.
I understand that the world can be harsh, demanding, and at times overwhelming. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, unraveling the layers that contribute to your unique lived experience. Whether you are facing challenges in your relationships, struggling with personal growth, or grappling with the uncertainties of the modern world, I am here to walk alongside you.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kimmy Hunkle, LMFT, APCC, APSATS, CCPS, CADC II, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76335675-f305-48a5-9eca-a67d58becbb4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimmy Hunkle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, APSATS, CCPS, CADC II
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Healing Services / Specialization includes Therapy for Depression and Anxiety, Women’s Issues, Addiction, Couples Counseling, Partner Trauma, Partners of Sex Addicts & Personality Disordered, PTSD, Infidelity, Family of Origin Molestation / Childhood Trauma and Evidence-Based Mindfulness /Resolution Spiritual Direction.
Kimmy Hunkle, MA., LMFT (120934), APCC, CCPS, CADC II (A043920317) earned her M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology; Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling & Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara. She is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) with the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialist (APSATS), a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADCII) and EMDR trained. If you are in pain seeking hope or heart healing, I looking forward to your call.
Healing Services / Specialization includes Therapy for Depression and Anxiety, Women’s Issues, Addiction, Couples Counseling, Partner Trauma, Partners of Sex Addicts & Personality Disordered, PTSD, Infidelity, Family of Origin Molestation / Childhood Trauma and Evidence-Based Mindfulness /Resolution Spiritual Direction.
Kimmy Hunkle, MA., LMFT (120934), APCC, CCPS, CADC II (A043920317) earned her M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology; Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling & Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara. She is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) with the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialist (APSATS), a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADCII) and EMDR trained. If you are in pain seeking hope or heart healing, I looking forward to your call.
![Photo of Greg Becker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa7574ee-314d-4bcc-8845-3d655a9023d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced therapist and life coach with proven success in assisting individuals, couples, families, C-level executives, military and church leaders, athletic coaches, and teams transform their challenging life and work situations into positive outcomes. I work extensively and productively with clients diagnosed with co-occurring disorders (substance use and mental health diagnoses), depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma, grief, PTSD and other issues. I work with couples and families. I employ a person-centered approach within a solutions-based, shorter term and flexible therapeutic process.
I am an experienced therapist and life coach with proven success in assisting individuals, couples, families, C-level executives, military and church leaders, athletic coaches, and teams transform their challenging life and work situations into positive outcomes. I work extensively and productively with clients diagnosed with co-occurring disorders (substance use and mental health diagnoses), depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma, grief, PTSD and other issues. I work with couples and families. I employ a person-centered approach within a solutions-based, shorter term and flexible therapeutic process.
![Photo of Kylie Apostle Schneider, ACSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2ed3193-e388-4310-ac8e-911574653e12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kylie Apostle Schneider
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
I am Kylie Apostle Schneider, an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW 120255) specializing in substance abuse and addiction, trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, and women's issues. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their unique challenges and achieve their personal goals. My background includes extensive experience working with diverse populations. I am passionate about empowering clients to overcome obstacles and build fulfilling lives. I believe in the importance of a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and spirit to promote well-being.
I am Kylie Apostle Schneider, an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW 120255) specializing in substance abuse and addiction, trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, and women's issues. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their unique challenges and achieve their personal goals. My background includes extensive experience working with diverse populations. I am passionate about empowering clients to overcome obstacles and build fulfilling lives. I believe in the importance of a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and spirit to promote well-being.
See more therapy options for Westminster
Nearby Addiction Therapists Searches for Westminster
- Anaheim
- Buena Park
- Cerritos
- Costa Mesa
- Cypress
- Fountain Valley
- Garden Grove
- Huntington Beach
- Los Alamitos
- Santa Ana
- Seal Beach
- Stanton
Addiction Therapists
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.
How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.
How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.
How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.